AkzoNobel confirms discussions with Axalta regarding potential merger

In response to market speculation, AkzoNobel has confirmed it is currently in constructive discussions regarding a merger of the AkzoNobel Paints & Coatings businesswith Axalta. This will create a leading global paints & coatings company through a merger of equals.

AkzoNobel confirms that its separation of Specialty Chemicals, including the return of the vast majority of net proceeds to shareholders, remains on track for April 2018and is unaffected by these discussions. Watch this space.